"Grain-free" kibble replaces grains with plant-based sources like potatoes or peas.

These plants do not contain taurine, so it is essential that the recipe is properly supplemented with synthetic taurine. The danger would be to feed poorly formulated kibble that does not contain enough animal protein or taurine supplementation. According to agronomist Karine Simard (Pattedeau Bio), the protein level should be around 35%.

Taurine?

Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, meaning their bodies cannot produce it in sufficient quantities, and it must be provided through their diet.

It acts as a metabolic cofactor, a natural antioxidant, and a cellular regulator in various tissues (heart, eyes, brain, liver, etc.).

HEART

Taurine is essential for proper heart muscle function. A deficiency causes dilated cardiomyopathy, a disease where the heart weakens and enlarges, leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, or even sudden death. This condition was common in the 1980s before pet food manufacturers corrected taurine levels.

EYES

Taurine protects the retina against degeneration. A deficiency leads to irreversible retinopathy, resulting in progressive blindness. This is why every cat must receive enough taurine, especially cats fed grain-free kibble.

DIGESTION

Taurine is necessary for the synthesis of bile acids, which aid in fat digestion. A deficiency disrupts digestion (vomiting, loose stools, loss of appetite) and liver health. It also contributes to maintaining the intestinal lining and proper digestive motility.

NERVOUS SYSTEM

Taurine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter: it helps regulate sleep, stress, and cognitive functions. It also participates in the development of the brain and vision in kittens.

A deficiency results in:

• Food stagnates in the stomach.
• Bile acids are poorly produced.
• Digestive tract muscles weaken.
• The intestinal wall becomes irritated and inflamed.

And your cat vomits.
Not because it is "sensitive."
Not because of hairballs.
But because it lacks the essential nutrient to digest its food, which is TAURINE!

If your cat shows any of these signs, it is likely taurine deficient:

• Vomits 2+ times per week
• Vomits 1–3 hours after eating
• "Sensitive stomach," several foods tried

• Lethargy, muscle weakness

• Loss of appetite, weight loss

• Impaired vision, dilated pupils

• Palpitations, heart murmur

• Growth retardation or infertility

Vomiting is not the illness.
It's the warning sign.

The safe dosage of taurine supplementation for an adult cat generally ranges between 200 and 500 mg per day, depending on weight, age, and physiological status (gestation, lactation, etc.). For an average-weight, neutered adult cat, most veterinarians recommend approximately 250 to 500 mg daily.

Natural sources of taurine: meat, offal (liver, heart), fish, seafood.

Average daily needs: approximately 250–500 mg/kg of dry food, according to FEDIAF and AAFCO recommendations.

Quality commercial kibble or wet food usually contains enough, but certain formulations (grain-free, legume-rich, low in meat) can reduce its absorption.

Carefully check the composition of your kibble if your cat experiences these recurrent vomiting episodes!